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On December 10, 2025, UNESCO inscribed Italy's culinary traditions and rituals as intangible cultural heritage, highlighting the social and cultural importance of practices like family meals and cooking rituals. Italy is the first country to receive this recognition for its cuisine, emphasizing sustainability, regional diversity, and the communal nature of food preparation and consumption.
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Scotland qualified for the 2025 World Cup after a 28-year wait, drawing Group C with Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti. Fans face high ticket prices and late kick-off times in the US, raising concerns about accessibility and viewing conditions. The tournament features 48 teams across North America, with ticketing and scheduling adjustments impacting supporters.
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As of November 2025, Japan is experiencing a historic surge in bear attacks, with 13 deaths and over 100 injuries since April. The spike is concentrated in northern prefectures like Akita and Iwate, driven by food shortages and rural depopulation. The government has deployed the military to assist in trapping bears, while travel advisories warn residents and tourists of increased risks.
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Several top Japanese baseball players, including Murakami, Okamoto, and Imai, are nearing MLB negotiations with posting windows opening soon. These players have distinguished careers in Japan and are attracting interest from major league teams, with potential signings expected to impact both markets.
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Michelle Obama expressed skepticism about the US being ready for a female president, citing ongoing gender biases. She made these remarks during her book promotion, emphasizing that men still need to grow up before women can lead effectively. The comments follow recent election results and ongoing political debates.
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Japan's PM warns of military response to China over Taiwan, prompting Taiwan to ease food import restrictions and show solidarity. Beijing dismisses Taiwan's claims, escalating regional tensions amid economic and military pressures.
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Russia has implemented a visa-free entry policy for Chinese citizens for up to 30 days, effective immediately through September 2026. The move aims to boost tourism and strengthen ties amid diplomatic tensions with Japan, with Chinese travel interest surging as a result.
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American playwright and actor Harris, known for 'Slave Play,' was detained at Naha Airport, Okinawa, on Nov. 16 for possessing 0.78 grams of MDMA. He was released on Dec. 8 while authorities continue their investigation under Japan's strict drug laws. No charges have been confirmed yet.
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As of November 27, 2025, diplomatic tensions between Japan and China have intensified following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statement that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival and justify a military response. China condemned the remarks, accusing Japan of militarism and colonial aggression, while Japan advances missile deployments near Taiwan. Taiwan supports Japan's security measures amid ongoing Chinese military pressure.
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As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
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Germany's government is engaging in high-level talks with China to address trade issues, including rare earths and supply chain concerns. Chancellor Merz's coalition aims to reduce dependency on China and bolster economic resilience, amid rising tensions and a record trade deficit. The visit signals a strategic shift in Germany's China policy.
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Recent articles highlight evolving food trends, from innovative mocktails in New York to regional dessert debates and creative holiday pies. Stories include viral food experiments, store-bought pie reviews, and insights into traditional favorites like pumpkin and sweet potato pie.
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Japan has announced a ¥17.7 trillion stimulus package to boost its economy amid concerns over rising spending, a weakening yen, and market volatility. The package aims to increase GDP and support consumers, but critics warn it may strain Japan’s fiscal health and push debt levels higher.
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Japan's October 2025 exports increased 3.6%, driven by semiconductors and gas turbines, but exports to the US fell 3.1% for the seventh consecutive month, mainly due to tariffs. Imports rose slightly, and Japan's trade surplus with the US narrowed. The economy shows signs of strain from US trade policies.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent remarks linking a Chinese attack on Taiwan to Japan's military response have triggered diplomatic protests from China. Beijing responded with accusations of violations of international law, economic measures, and canceled bilateral events, deepening regional tensions amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan's sovereignty.
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On Tuesday evening, a fire broke out in Korail, one of Dhaka's largest slums, burning for 16 hours and destroying about 1,500 shanties. Thousands of residents, many climate refugees, were left homeless. Firefighters struggled due to narrow alleys. The slum lies between affluent neighborhoods, highlighting stark urban contrasts in Bangladesh's capital.
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Danilo Yavhushyshyn, a Ukrainian sumo wrestler known as Aonishiki Arata, was promoted to the rank of ozeki after winning a major tournament in Japan. His rise highlights the increasing diversity in sumo, with non-Japanese wrestlers excelling despite traditional gender and cultural barriers.
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Recent remarks by Japan's new leader have heightened diplomatic tensions, prompting Chinese cruise ships and tourists to avoid Japanese ports and favor South Korea. This shift benefits South Korea's tourism industry but raises concerns about long-term regional stability.
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Mone Chiba won the free skate at the Finlandia Trophy, securing her spot in the Grand Prix Final in Nagoya. Yuma Kagiyama also claimed victory in men's singles, both representing Japan. The event featured strong performances despite some falls, with notable results for American and Canadian skaters as well.
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U.S. and Chinese leaders held a call discussing Taiwan, Ukraine, and trade, with Xi reaffirming Taiwan as part of China. Japan's military comments on Taiwan drew Chinese condemnation. The story highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent diplomatic exchanges.
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Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi made comments suggesting military action if China attacks Taiwan, prompting a diplomatic row with China. Trump discussed the issue with both Xi Jinping and Takaichi, with US support for Taiwan now uncertain amid escalating tensions. The dispute impacts regional stability and economic relations.
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Last week, a Tokyo court ruled that Japan's refusal to recognize same-sex marriages does not violate the constitution, a setback for LGBTQ+ advocates. The decision follows a series of legal cases challenging the ban, with the Supreme Court expected to review the matter.
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Severe flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah has resulted in over 2,500 deaths across Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and India. Thousands remain displaced, with ongoing rescue and recovery efforts. Heavy rains and landslides continue to threaten the region, which faces worsening climate-related disasters.
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Cyclone Ditwah caused severe flooding, landslides, and destruction across Sri Lanka, affecting over 1.2 million people, with at least 88 confirmed deaths and hundreds missing. Relief efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage and heavy rains, with more adverse weather expected.
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Economists and international organizations project a modest slowdown in global growth for 2026, influenced by trade tensions, tariffs, and AI investment. The US economy is expected to grow around 2%, with risks from trade policies and AI market speculation. Forecasts remain cautious amid ongoing uncertainties.
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A Japanese gardener who became a citizen shares insights on Japan's cultural significance, while Japan's political leadership emphasizes economic growth and international cooperation at key conferences, highlighting a focus on tradition and strategic global engagement.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned last month that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could provoke a response from Tokyo. Meanwhile, China seeks stronger communication with France and the UK on regional issues, emphasizing the 'One China' principle amid ongoing tensions over Taiwan and Ukraine.
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The US has softened its stance on China, reopening high-end chip sales and avoiding confrontation over Taiwan amid increased Chinese military activity. Washington emphasizes cooperation and stability, while regional tensions escalate with China’s military drills and diplomatic pressure on Japan and Taiwan.
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Australia's defence and foreign ministers met US counterparts in Washington to discuss Indo-Pacific stability, critical minerals, and troop deployments. They highlighted progress on AUKUS and reaffirmed regional security commitments, amid rising tensions with China and Japan. The visit underscores Australia's strategic focus on regional alliances.
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China commemorated the Nanjing massacre without President Xi Jinping, amid heightened tensions with Japan. Japan plans missile deployment near Taiwan, prompting Chinese protests and military encounters. Diplomatic and military strains escalate as both nations exchange accusations and warnings today, Sat, 13 Dec 2025.
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Chinese J-15 fighter jets launched from the Liaoning aircraft carrier targeted Japanese F-15s with radar locks near Okinawa. Japan protested the incidents, calling them dangerous acts exceeding safe operational limits. China disputes the claims, citing routine exercises. No injuries or damage reported.
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Japan's economy contracted by 0.6% in the third quarter, revised from earlier estimates. Exports declined slightly, and private residential investment fell 8.2%. U.S. tariffs on autos and imports have strained Japan-U.S. relations, while Japan's new prime minister seeks economic revival.
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On Monday night, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck about 80 km off Aomori Prefecture’s coast, triggering tsunami warnings for northeastern Japan. Tsunami advisories were lifted by Tuesday morning after waves up to 70 cm were recorded. At least 33 people were injured, power outages occurred, and transport services were temporarily suspended. Authorities warn of possible aftershocks and increased risk of a larger quake.
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As Milan prepares for the 2026 Winter Olympics, issues with rink size and ice quality at the Santa Giulia Arena have emerged. Construction delays and discrepancies in rink dimensions compared to NHL standards raise safety and gameplay concerns, with the main rink scheduled for completion just days before the events begin.
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Russian and Chinese military aircraft entered South Korea’s Air Defence Identification Zone (KADIZ) on Tuesday, prompting South Korea to deploy fighter jets. Japan also responded with military measures amid joint Russian-Chinese air drills, which China and Russia say are routine exercises. The incident highlights ongoing regional military activity.
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Japan issued a quake advisory amid a recent magnitude 7.5 earthquake, with increased risk of a larger, potentially devastating quake within a week. Officials urge residents to prepare for possible tsunamis and aftershocks, referencing past disasters like the 2011 quake and nuclear crisis.
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U.S. health officials, under the influence of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have reversed decades of vaccination policy by ending universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. The move, driven by a panel with controversial appointees, faces widespread criticism from medical groups and public health experts, raising concerns over increased hepatitis B risks.
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Recent days have seen increased military activity in East Asia, with US, Chinese, and Russian forces conducting joint and unilateral strategic bomber flights near Japan. Japan and South Korea responded with fighter jet scrambles amid regional tensions over Taiwan and China's assertiveness.
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On December 10, 2025, US Customs and Border Protection proposed mandatory collection of five years of social media data, phone numbers, emails, and biometric information from travelers under the Visa Waiver Program. This expands existing social media screening to visa-exempt visitors from 42 countries, including the UK, France, Australia, Japan, and Israel, aiming to enhance national security ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Public comments are open for 60 days.
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Recent reports reveal stark global inequality, with the ultra-rich controlling three times the wealth of the poorest half. Women earn significantly less and work longer hours worldwide, highlighting persistent gender disparities amid growing economic concentration at the top.
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The expanded 48-team World Cup draw has been announced, highlighting potential upsets and tough groups. England faces Croatia first, while teams like Brazil, France, and Norway are positioned for strong runs. The format aims to reduce early eliminations, but unpredictability remains high.
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Recent surveys reveal a surge in food bank use among UK parents, with over 1.7 million relying on food support due to rising living costs. Many parents report sending children to bed hungry, highlighting ongoing economic hardship and increased demand for charitable aid.
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Salih, former Iraqi president, is set to succeed Filippo Grandi as UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The appointment, pending formal approval, comes amid a year of significant funding cuts and rising global displacement. Salih's background and vision aim to reshape the agency's approach to refugee aid.